Jimmy Butler is hoping to have his best season yet with the Miami Heat as he seeks a max contract next offseason.
The star forward, however, is 35 years old at the start of the regular season and already has plenty of mileage under his belt from his time with the Chicago Bulls. Despite the added motivation that a new contract brings, HoopsHype predicts a worse campaign for Butler than any other veteran star.
HoopsHype’s Frank Urbina has released his top 30 forwards for next season.where Paul George (No. 5) of the Philadelphia 76ers was just one spot ahead of Butler (No. 6).
“It’s unclear how much of this has to do with Miami choosing not to sign Butler to the maximum extension he was eligible for this summer, but regardless, the star forward chose not to make a big deal out of it,” Urbina wrote.
Miami management’s decision not to extend Butler is bold but understandable. Butler’s desire to extend to the max shouldn’t just come from his past success with the Heat, but rather from demonstrating that he still has talent in the tank. Giving him a year to prove himself could greatly benefit both parties.
George is entering a completely new system in Philadelphia, sharing touches with star big man Joel Embiid and reigning Most Improved Player Tyrese Maxey. The 34-year-old is used to sharing the ball, playing in loaded lineups for the second half of his career. The deciding factor in the Butler-George debate for next season is the NBA playoffs.
“For Butler, the 2024-25 season will be a time when he will have to prove he can stay healthy and not miss too much regular-season time, especially if the soon-to-be 35-year-old hopes to land another big contract in Miami.”
MORE HEAT NEWS
Miami Heat return to familiar territory in latest Eastern Conference standings
Why should NBA fans believe in the Miami Heat this season?
Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer for Miami Heat On SI. You can contact him at [email protected] or follow him on X @AnthonyPasci.
Follow all our Miami Heat coverage on Facebook HERE.
